The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

RAMBAN: Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan today inaugurated a Food Processing Unit established by Kawna Buzla MPACS at Ahma Trigam, Tehsil Khari under the Food Processing Scheme for Cooperative Societies launched by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner also unveiled the brand logo of the products of Kawna Buzla MPACS, namely “Buzla Naturals.” The brand aims to promote locally produced and processed agricultural products from the region under a common identity.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate Banihal Mohammad Naseeb Bajraan, Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies Priyanka Sharma, AD FCS&CA, Tehsildar Khari, BDO Khari, ARCS Block Ramban & Ukhral and other officers were present on the occasion, besides members of the Cooperative Society and local residents.

Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated the efforts of the Cooperative Department and the MPACS in establishing such a unit in the remote area of Khari. He emphasized that food processing initiatives under the cooperative sector will help generate employment opportunities and enhance the income of local farmers through value addition and better marketing of local produce.

The Walnut Processing Unit has been established under the Food Processing Unit Scheme, which provides financial assistance to Cooperative Societies for setting up food processing infrastructure. Under the scheme, cooperatives are eligible for 50% subsidy on loans up to ₹4.50 lakh for establishing food processing units. Additionally, the government provides 100% interest subvention on loans taken from cooperative banks up to ₹9 lakh or 90% of the project cost (whichever is lower) with a repayment period of four years.

Earlier, the Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies Ramban welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the role of cooperative societies in strengthening rural livelihoods and promoting sustainable economic development in the district. During the programme, certificates were also distributed to newly registered cooperative societies.

Later, the Deputy Commissioner also visited the Trout Fish Processing Unit established by Banihal Trout Farmer Producer Cooperative Ltd, which was recently inaugurated. He appreciated the efforts of the Cooperative Department in promoting the region’s unique Rainbow Trout and advised stakeholders to focus on proper branding and packaging to expand the reach of trout products to markets beyond the district.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here